Get Fit the One Card

The community magazine for the Isle of Wight Issue 29 September 2010

Get fit the One Card way See inside for new Fall into Fitness campaign WELCOME The community magazine for the Isle of Wight How to contact us Issue 29 September 2010 Welcome to September’s One Island If you have community news to share In this edition we feature a on Ryde fire station, currently with other readers, we would like to hear special eight-page annual at the forefront of the from you. We also welcome your letters. report supplement, giving important modernisation You can contact us by post, email or you details of the council’s plans for the Island’s fire and telephone. achievements on your rescue service, and take a look behalf in 2009/2010 and at the exciting Fall into Fitness Post One Island, Communications, the priorities as we move initiative at the Island’s leisure County Hall, Newport PO30 1UD through the next financial centres – including special Email [email protected] year and beyond. offers available through the Get fit the We also turn the spotlight One Card scheme. Telephone 823105 One Card w a y See inside for new Fall into Fitness campaign USEFUL CONTACTS Advertising in EMERGENCY NUMBERS COUNCIL MEETINGS Isle of Wight Council, County In an emergency dial 999 Unless otherwise stated, One Island all meetings are in public Hall, Newport PO30 1UD Fire and rescue control More than 43,000 copies of Fax: 823333 centre (24hrs) 525121 at County Hall. Call 823200 24 hours before a meeting to One Island are distributed Email: Out of hours: ensure it is going ahead and throughout the Island every [email protected] Highways 525121 to check if any items are likely two months. Website: www.iwight.com Waste disposal 0800 3283851 to be held in private session. The magazine is published Wightcare 533772/821105 Council (council chamber) as an insert in the Isle of TELEPHONE SERVICES (out of hours) 22 September (6pm) Wight County Press – with All other council Call centre: 821000 services 821105 20 October (6pm) additional copies available in Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm 17 November (6pm) libraries, post offices, help Saturday: 9am to 1pm FACE TO FACE Cabinet (committee room one) centres, doctors’ surgeries We recommend you contact SERVICES 12 October (6pm) and other key locations. the call centre initially, where Planning Committee If you would like to we aim to answer as many Newport Help Centre (council chamber) advertise in the magazine, enquiries as possible at this first Tel: 821000 28 September (4pm) please contact us for more point of contact. County Hall, Newport PO30 1UD 30 September (4pm) information and a copy of Popular numbers Mon to Fri: 8am to 6pm 6 October (4pm) 26 October (4pm) our rate card: Automated Cowes Help Centre 16 November (4pm) Tel: 823351 telephone payments 559310 Library, Beckford Road, Cowes Audit Committee Email: oneisland Building control 823580 PO31 7SG. Wed: 1pm to 4pm @iow.gov.uk Council tax 823901 (committee room one) East Cowes Help Centre Education 823455 21 September (6pm) ADVERTISING RATE CARD 2010 Environmental health 823000 Library, 11 York Avenue, Ethical Standards Committee Housing benefits 823950 East Cowes PO32 6QY. Wed: 9am (committee room one) Leisure services 823828 to 12 noon 25 October (6pm) ONE Libraries 203880 Ryde Help Centre Overview and Scrutiny Licensing 823000 Tel: 812678 Committee Parking services 823714 ISLAND Ryde Library, 101 George Street, (committee room one) A brighter life for Rachel Planning 823552 29 September (6pm) Ryde PO33 2JE. Mon to Wed, Fri Refuse collection 823777 11 November (6pm)

Golden summer es for Island athlet Registrars 823233 Sandown Help Centre Adult Social Care, Health THE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FROM THE ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL AND ITS PARTNERS Roads and highways 823777 Council offices, Broadway, and Housing Scrutiny Panel Tourism 813813 Sandown PO36 9EA (committee room one) Trading standards 823396 14 October (6pm) You can also download a Consumer Direct 08454 040506 West Wight Help Centre Children and Young People copy of the rate card from Wightbus 823782 Tel: 756140 Scrutiny Panel the council’s iwight.com Dial-a-bus 522226 Freshwater Library, 41 School Green Road, Freshwater PO40 (committee room one) website. Community services 13 October (6pm) Adult services 823340 9AP. Tues and Fri (Adult duty, emergency) 534227 Economy, Environment Wootton Bridge Help Centre andTransport Scrutiny Panel PARTNER CONTACTS Children’s services 525790 Tel: 884361 Local centres: Cowes 291144 (committee room one) NHS Isle of Wight Joanne’s Walk, Brannon Way, 27 October (6pm) Tel: (01983) 524081 Newport 823340 Wootton Bridge PO33 4NX. Mon Police Ryde 566011 Fire and Community Safety Tel: 0845 45 45 45 Sandown 408448 and Fri: 9am to 1pm Scrutiny Panel Rural Community Council Headquarters 520600 Please ring 821000 to confirm (committee room one) Tel: (01983) 524058 Housing 823040 opening times. 18 October (6pm)

2 One Island CONTENTS 4 FIRST WORD Council and community news

FEATURES 9 Autumn Walking Weekend All set for popular October event 10 Fall into fitness in 2010 Special offers at council leisure centres 14 Dedicated to the community A modern fire service for the Island

CENTRE PAGES (PULL OUT) page 14 Isle of Wight Council Annual Report and Summary of Accounts 2009/2010 page 22 SUPPLEMENTS page 10 page 19 17 The Island’s NHS Your feedback on key issues 18 Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police Policing priorities and focus on community work

22 COAST AND COUNTRY Rural and coastal news

24 TIME & PLACE Events and activities

Cover picture: Medina Leisure Centre staff, Annual report supplement Yvette Nicol and Richard Nembhard (centre pages) One Island is a community magazine produced by the Isle of Wight Council with its key public sector partners – NHS Isle of Wight, Isle of Wight Police (Hampshire Constabulary) and the Isle of Wight Rural Community Council. Working together through the Island Strategic Partnership, we are striving to create an Island that is safe and well kept; healthy and supportive; inspiring; and thriving.

This magazine is ONE ISLAND is published ISSN 1752-8038 by the Isle of Wight Council. © COPYRIGHT 2010 available on request The council does not accept Isle of Wight Council, responsibility for goods or as an audiotape, in County Hall, Newport, services offered by advertisers. Isle of Wight PO30 1UD. large print, in Braille, Additional copies are available in other languages from the Customer Service Printed on paper from Centre at County Hall, libraries sustainable sources by and online at and other council facilities. Belmont Press. www.iwight.com Typetalk calls welcome. For further details, Written, designed and produced by the Communications please contact One Department, Isle of Wight Island on 823105. Council.

One Island 3 FIRST WORD Give your support to the Isle of Pink

The Breast Cancer Campaign’s Isle of Pink initiative has hours of aerobics including sessions of Zumba, Street Cheer, returned to the Isle of Wight for the third year running this Broadway Boogie and Pilates led by top Island fitness instructors month. at Carisbrooke High School on 26 September. The annual initiative, supported by the council and many local If you would like to take part in Pink Aerobics please visit businesses and fund raisers, aims to bring the colour pink to the www.breastcancercampaign.org/isleofpink and sign up online. fore throughout the Island. In the past two years the Isle of Pink has raised more than All kinds of businesses and organisations are encouraged to £46,000 for the Breast Cancer Campaign – equivalent to £1 for show their support by giving the campaign prominence and every person diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK. making a donation or buying a pink ribbon. To find out more about the Isle of Pink and how This year the charity has launched an Isle of Pink ribbon pin you can get involved, please call 0207 7493708, badge so fund raisers can have a special way to show their support. email: [email protected] or visit The pink month climaxes with Pink Aerobics, involving two www.breastcancercampaign.org/isleofpink Bestival helps with water awareness Island schoolchildren are where both staff and pupils can part of each visit. being taught about the receive advice and assistance Any Island schools keen on importance of water saving, on reducing water wastage in hosting a workshop should thanks to an initiative involv- school and at home. contact The Footprint Trust, Keep collecting for ing the Bestival Foundation. Full eco-audits will also form tel: 822282. the hospice The foundation, a new Keep collecting your plastic charity launched to help milk bottle tops. That is improve Isle of Wight life, is the message from the Earl working with The Footprint Mountbatten Hospice at Trust charity to fund the Newport which is using the programme about water items to raise vital funds. saving. Collecting bins are set up at Every Island schoolchild aged all the hospice charity shops under 16 is being provided in Newport, Ryde, Cowes, with a free, fully recycled water Ventnor and Freshwater, as bottle as part of the ‘Adopt a well as Morrisons at Lake. Bottle’ initiative over the next Only plastic milk bottle tops three years. are needed, and for each ton In addition to the Adopt a sent for recycling the hospice Bottle scheme, schools are gets £50. Almost all the being given the chance to host appropriate tops will carry a free water-saving workshops recycling sign and have the number two or four in them. 4 One Island

Don’t forget to register to vote

Forms have been sent out to 69,000 Island homes as part The Island’s registration copies of certificates while you of the annual canvass to update the register of electors. service for births, deaths and wait. The new register is due to be published on 1 December, and marriages will be based at the You can order copy residents are being reminded to return their completed forms council offices at Seaclose, certificates either via the online by the deadline of 30 September. Newport from 1 October. forms on www.iwight.com, by The forms allow people to make any changes to the names The last day the service telephone, or by writing to the of those registered as electors at their address. will operate from Northwood superintendent registrar with Even if there have been no changes, it is vital the forms are House, Cowes will be the correct fee. The service returned; it is a legal requirement to supply the information, Wednesday 29 September. will deal with requests within and being on the register ensures you can exercise your vote. There will be no service – five working days, and will Subject to approval by Parliament, 2011 could see Islanders other than for emergencies – on try to turn around genuine joining the rest of the country in going to the polls for a Thursday 30 September and the emergency requests sooner. referendum on electoral reform. service will open as normal at The council is also Increasingly, the register of electors is also used to check Seaclose on Friday 1 October. progressing plans for a small people’s identity when they apply for credit, and if you are not The newly-located office will wedding room at Seaclose as registered at the address you give on your loan application, you be open between the extended well as licensing two rooms at may be refused credit, or at least find it more difficult to obtain. hours of 8.30am and 5pm. Ventnor Botanic Garden. The canvass form also allows you to request an application Under the changes, archived form to vote by post. records will no longer be stored • For more information about If your household has not yet received a canvass form, please at the office, so it will no longer the new service please visit call the electoral services office at the council on 821000. be possible to call and collect iwight.com or call 823233.

Progress is continuing apace on the exciting Landmark project moves ahead plans for the new Cowes Secondary School. The planning application for the £30 million Cowes One School Pathfinder project on the existing Cowes High site was due to be considered this month. Project director for the council, Janet Newton, said: “We are looking forward to working with staff and pupils in September to develop the furniture requirements, colour schemes, external equipment etc. “We are also setting up two mock classrooms in Cowes High School that can be used to trial new furniture and ICT equipment. The classrooms will be ready for use during the autumn term.” The new Cowes Secondary School is intended to provide a state of the art learning environment and an asset for the whole community – far beyond the role of a traditional school. Due to open for the new academic year in 2012, it will include many features in keeping Pictured: Artist’s impression of the new Cowes school with the Eco Island agenda.

One Island 5

SPORTS UNIT ROUND-UP

Celebrating National Play Day

Just under 2,000 people attended this year’s National Play Day on the Island, held at Medina Leisure Centre, Newport on 4 August. The event was organised by play development officer Carly Bain and play ranger Sophie Biggs, and once again featured a wide range of activities. Play Day celebrates a child’s right to play, encouraging families to come together to allow children to explore different types of freely chosen play. This year’s event included messy play, a beach themed area, giant wooden play letters which the children could paint, bouncy castles, magic shows, a rough and tumble area, sports and games, a fire engine, a toddler area, face painting and circus skills. For more information on play Big hopes rangers, mini rangers, or National Play Day, please contact Carly on for new girls’ [email protected] or tel: 823818. football league New players and new teams are wanted for the 2010/2011 girls’ football season on the Island. The season is due to begin in the next few weeks, and the hope is to build on the progress of 2009/2010, which resulted in four tournaments being held in the spring. New clubs have been set up at Ventnor, Sandown, Ryde, East Cowes, Newport and Brighstone, which will take part in a new league this season. All the clubs welcome new players, regardless of ability or previous experience, especially beginners. If you are aged between seven and 12 and would like to get involved, please contact the sports unit for more information (see contact details below).

For further details on any sports unit initiatives please call 823818 or email: [email protected]

6 One Island

A thriving Island ... A safe and well-kept Island ... A healthy and supportive Island ... An inspiring Island ... A thriving Island ... A safe and well-kept Island ... A healthy and supportive Island ... An inspiring Island ... A thriving Island ... A safe and well-kept Island ... A healthy and supportive Island ... An inspiring Island Community news from around the Island Funding for sports clubs Getting set for the biggest games yet A number of Island sports clubs have secured grant funding in recent months. The Isle of Wight Canoe Club has been awarded £5,000 by Grassroots Grants, to help buy new canoes, kayaks and accessories. The grant will also support the club to extend its coaching programmes. Smaller grants have been approved by Grassroots Grants for projects for Bembridge Youth and Community Centre and Ventnor Table Tennis Club. Newport Rowing Club has secured £1,000 from Sportsmatch, to help with new equipment to allow it to increase its activities. Two year Preparations for the 2011 NatWest Estonia, Finland, Greece, Norway, Spain, Island Games on the Isle of Wight are Sweden, the UK and the Caribbean. count- proceeding well following a recent In 1999, NatWest became the title sponsor visit by delegates from the 25 member of the games, which have become among down to islands. the largest participation events behind the London The delegates and members of the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. games’ executive committee visited The NatWest Island Games 2011 are being 2012 the Island to coincide with the one-year run by the Island Games Association (Isle of A series of free activities were recently countdown to the games. Wight) supported by the council, which is held across the Island to mark the two During the visit a countdown clock also a sponsor. year countdown to the 2012 Olympic (pictured above) was unveiled at Newport’s The 25 member islands compete every Games in London. Guildhall and delegates visited sporting two years in a range of sports including The Open Weekend initiative saw venues and accommodation that will be archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, hundreds of events take place across the used for the games. cycling, football, golf, squash, swimming, UK, and on the Island included rowing, The games on the Island are expected to shooting, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, pilates, yoga, swimming, golf and tennis. be the largest to date. windsurfing and sailing. The initiative also provided the The International Island Games were If you would like to get involved in opportunity to look ahead to next year’s established in the Isle of Man in 1985 and supporting the 2011 games – whether Isle of Wight NatWest Island Games. today include 25 member islands in, or through volunteering, sponsorship More information on the events associated with, the nine sovereign nations or participation – please visit that took place can be found at or groups of nations of Canada, Denmark, www.natwestislandgames2011.co.uk www.london2012.com/openweekend Ryde pupils triumph as St Helena Pupils from Ryde became the primary schools for the areas of Island’s champs recently at the Ryde, Sandown, Ventnor, Cowes third Primary School Island Games. and East Cowes, Newport, The Ryde area primary school Carisbrooke and the West Wight. pupils went under the flag of There were around 1,000 St Helena at the annual games, spectators watching sports where Island schools represented including tennis, girls’ football, different islands from the Nat West athletics, tag rugby, netball, International Island Games. cycling and basketball. More than 400 children took Also attending was the part in the games, organised by International Island Games the council’s sports unit. executive committee and guests Each Island Games island – from all 25 member islands. the Cayman Islands, St Helena, The Ryde area pupils, as St Rhodes, Greenland, Menorca, Helena, won six out of the seven Gibraltar, Western Isles and sports, followed by Sandown Bermuda – was represented (Cayman Islands) in second place, by a cluster of Isle of Wight and Ventnor (Greenland) in third.

One Island 7

A new multi-sports zone in the shape Gold medallist Sarah of the London 2012 Olympics logo was recently unveiled at Sandham Gardens, opens new ‘adiZone’ Sandown by sailing gold medallist Sarah Gosling (pictured left). The free-to-use facility has been developed by sports firm Adidas and features a climbing wall, outdoor gym, basketball court and football goals. Sarah Gosling, who won Olympic gold in 2004 and 2008 in the Yngling class, cut the ribbon at the adiZone, which has been paid for through funding by Adidas, the Small Rural Towns Project and Isle of Wight Community Safety Partnership. The project is also supported by the Island’s NHS, Hampshire Constabulary and Sandown Town Council, and is the 50th adiZone to be built in the country. Two other new community facilities were also launched at Sandham Gardens – the Fort Multi Play Courts and the Fort Play Park, opened by Sandown Town Council and Sandown Community Partnership. Remembering the Island’s fallen A special Field of Remembrance is to be unveiled in the Princess Beatrice Garden at Carisbrooke Castle, commemorating those in the uniformed services from the Island who lost their lives in service of their country. Learn The field will be next to the castle’s chapel and will be formally unveiled at a short service of to buy remembrance at the castle, conducted by the archdeacon safely of the Isle of Wight, the Venerable Caroline Baston at online 11am on 11 November. It is the first time a field Autumn of remembrance has been Walking Island libraries are to play online safely, including using created for the whole Island, Weekend a frontline role in trading secure payment facilities. and its siting is next to a chapel 22-25 standards advice on safe The main aim of the which lists all the servicemen October buying on the internet. initiative is to encourage and women from the Island Trading standards officers people without home access who lost their lives during the will be giving guidance via to the internet (and novice or First World War. computers in the libraries as irregular users) to purchase The Field of Remembrance well as through display boards goods and services safely opens to the public on and other information. online. 10 November at 10am and There will be advice on how The dates for the advice will remain open until 4pm on to review websites and check sessions (taking place between 15 November. their origins and how to shop 9am and 3.30pm) are: The Royal British Legion Lord Louis Library, Newport 20 September is making crosses available for members of the public Ryde Library 15 October to purchase from the visitor Sandown Library 9 November centre at the castle – these Freshwater Library 29 November can then be placed in the Cowes Library 18 January appropriate section of the Field Ventnor Library 22 February of Remembrance.

8 One Island

Don’t miss the Autumn Walking Weekend Next month will see the third staging of the Island’s autumn walking weekend, a popular offshoot of the successful annual walking festival in May

Autumn ISLE OF WIGHT A selectionISLE of OF WIGHTwalks ISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT Walking WALKING reversed out Beaches, bars andWALKING blisters walk knocked out WALKING WALKING WALKING Weekend version FESTI VAL version 22-25 A round-the-IslandFESTI coastalVAL path walk is being organised for the FESTI VAL FESTI VAL FESTI VAL October first time at the autumn event. It is being staged by the author of 2011the Beaches, Bars2011 and Blisters book. 7-22 MAY 7-22 MAY 72011-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY 2011 Disabled scooter ramble 7-22 MAY This event is being held for disabled scooter users, taking them ore than 60 themed the walks led by experienced ISLEoff OF WIGHT the road to enjoyISLE OFthe WIGHT countryside. TheISLE OFscooter WIGHT ramble startsISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT and guided walks are volunteers and most free WALKINGfrom Yarmouth andWALKING follows the FreshwaterWALKING Trail looping round WALKINGto WALKING WALKING Min the schedule for of charge. You can view all FESTIAftonVAL Down. FESTI VAL FESTI VAL FESTI VAL FESTI VAL FESTI VAL the 2010 Isle of Wight Autumn the walks online at www. Children’s walks Walking Weekend, taking place isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk, There is a wide selection of walks for youngsters. These include: 2011- 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY from 22 to 25 October. and download a pdf to give you 7 22the MAY Autumn Earth Walk with the Wildlife Trust; a walk through This year there will be a variety your own personal brochure. Bouldnor Forest in search of red squirrels; a tea party walk; and a of new routes and themes during Hard copies will be available walk searching for dinosaur fossils. the council-organised event, from tourist information ISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT ISLE OF WIGHT including a round the Island centres. WALKING Isle ofWALKING Wight Walking FestivalWALKING 2011 WALKING coastal path walk for the first If you are looking for FESTI Don’t FESTIforget to book the datesFESTI in your diary for the FESTI time at the autumn weekend. somewhere to stay on the Island VAL 2011 walkingVAL festival from 7 to 22V May.AL In 2010 VAL As usual there are walks for during the weekend, visit www. more than 21,000 people took part. all ages and abilities, with all islandbreaks.co.uk for details. 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY 20117-22 MAY One Island 9

SPECIAL FEATURE

C O Y It’s time to G S N R O L D I R C A turn over a new leaf L V E ESSIO N The hardest part of getting fit is getting started. The council’s leisure centres have launched a special Fall into Fitness campaign to help you get fit, tone-up and de-stress…

Each Tone Zone gym at The Heights, also at The Heights is the class for you Medina Leisure Centre and Westridge to lengthen and stretch those stiff and Centre, has a wide range of equipment aching muscles. for an all-over fitness regime. If you’re after hypnotic Latin Another way to get active is to try rhythms and easy-to-follow moves, aquafit and fitness classes at The Zumba is what you need and there A new kind of flexibility Heights and Medina Leisure Centres, are classes at both The Heights and at the heart of your geared to help you get more flexible Medina throughout the week. and fit. For more information, download a fitness If you’re a beginner, try Back to class timetable from iwight.com/leisure Join the successful One Card scheme Basics at The Heights. This fantastic or pick up a copy from The Heights, for some of the best fitness deals on workout has easy-to-follow aerobic Medina Leisure Centre, Waterside Pool the Island. routines and toning exercises. If you’re or Westridge Tone Zone. One Card is now in its tenth year tired and exhausted, Stretch and Relax and its options have beenGOLD rebranded SILVER CONCESSIONARY to make it even easier to choose which One Card is for you. Thousands of Island residents have signed up to the One Card since its launch in 2000. It’s a great way to get the best value from the council’s leisure facilities. There are cards for adults, juniors and students, all for a monthly fee with flexible payment options. If you’re receiving certain benefits, you may qualify for a concessionaryGOLD SILVER CONCESSIONARY One Card, giving you affordable access to health and fitness. Ask leisure centre staff for information.

Gold Card The all-round fitness solution. Unlimited* use of everything (over 16s only). From £33 a month. G O L D Silver Card The choice for all your water- based fitness and leisure activities. Unlimited* use of our three swimming pools, plus racket sports and the health suite S I L V E R at The Heights. (*subject to availability) Special offer To celebrate Fall into Fitness, and help you get the most from your fitness, some special offers have been lined up for new and existing customers during our open day (see opposite page). 10 One Island

SPECIAL FEATURE Come and see what’s on and don’t miss our special offer at your local leisure Fall into Fitness centre. Visit the Tone Zone gyms and see the wide range of equipment, from open bikes, to rowers to steppers. day

The Tone Zones are bright and welcoming and our enthusiastic staff will be on hand to advise and help you choose what’s best for you. Don’t worry if you’re not used to the gym – everyone’s had to start somewhere. Open Day on Saturday 25 September The Heights and Medina Leisure Centre, 10am to 4pm. Westridge Squash and Tone Zone, 10am to 1pm.

• At The Heights and Medina, you can swim for free during one of our public sessions (check the availability on your visit). You can pick up a free swim voucher at Westridge to use at Waterside Pool, Ryde. • You can also get a taste of our fitness facilities with try-before-you- buy sessions. • Sign up for a Gold One Card during the open day for a minimum of three months, and we’ll give you a month for free (terms and Look out for our new leaflets conditions apply). And the first 25 customers to sign up for a Gold All our information leaflets have a bright new One Card will get a free gift. look. Check out the displays at the leisure centres and pick and mix the information you need. • If you’re one of our existing customers, you’re not left out. We all know that a fitness programme can get boring after a while, so book to refresh your programme at one of our Tone Zone gyms (you must book ahead for the open days). If you book for a refresh, you’ll get a free session in one of our far infrared therapy cabins at The Heights or Medina Leisure Centre. Special offer for One Card holders – Half price sessions in the far infrared therapy cabin at The Heights and Medina. One Card holders pay just £5 a session (terms and conditions apply).

Westridge Squash and Tone Zone, Ryde Tel: 566243, email: [email protected] Medina Leisure Centre, Newport Tel: 523767, email: [email protected] One Island 11 The Heights, Sandown Tel: 405594, email: [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT Making a real difference to young people’s lives The CombinedADVERTISEMENT he council’s Combined Accommodation Scheme works Accommodation Scheme Young people have better chances with social work teams to support young people who are in life if they have a stable, caring currently in or have been in foster care. T home background, but some may The focus of the scheme is to ensure continuity of care and never have had this positive accommodation for young people and to improve their health, experience. Carers can make education and lifetime opportunities. a difference to young people The team responsible for the scheme recruits, assesses and like these, but it can take time provides ongoing support to those who wish to provide foster and perseverance, and can be care/supportive lodgings for young people. challenging at times. The scheme welcomes couples, families and single people, who are able to value, respect, encourage and listen to young people. People are needed who can promote young people into independence and care for them We are looking for consistent at the same time. and stable carers to offer Some young people say older young people care that the turning point in their and accommodation. If lives has come when they you are interested in being have experienced a positive a carer for the Combined relationship with someone Accommodation Scheme, who cares about them as an please contact Fostering Duty individual through the bad on (01983) 566011 or visit times. www.iwight.com/fostering

• Please see the advertisement opposite for details.

ADVERTISEMENT Great activities for disabled children ettlecombe Farm in ‘Stay on a farm’ overnight Whitwell is offering breaks at Nettlecombe Farm Na variety of activities are available at substantially for disabled children and discounted rates for parties that their families/carers via the include a child or young person government’s Aiming High for who meets the Aiming High Disabled Children programme. eligibility criteria. The activities are among a Nettlecombe Farm owner, range planned across the Island Jose Morris, said: “We are over the coming months in an delighted to offer our facilities initiative run by the council and to disabled children who live the NHS. on the Island. The Aiming High The vision behind Aiming programme has allowed us to High for Disabled Children is do this and we very much look for all families with disabled forward to making a difference children to have the support to the lives of these children they need to live ordinary family and their families.” lives. More details can be found at Nettlecombe Farm has nine www.nettlecombefarm.co.uk/ luxurious self-catering holiday aiminginghigh or by emailing properties, three well-stocked aiminghigh@nettlecombefarm. coarse fishing lakes, many co.uk animals on the farm for guests to enjoy (ranging from rabbits • Details of other activities on to emus), a rustic adventure the Island can be found at www. play facility, a range of play iwight.com/council/aiminghigh/ equipment and special bikes for default.asp or from the Family disabled children. Information Zone, tel: 821999.

12 One Island ANNUAL REPORT

Annual report and summary statement of accounts 2009/2010

Inside this report Children’s services 2 Introduction Economy and the environment 2 This report is a summary of the council’s priorities and achievements Community services 4 together with its financial accounts for 2009/2010. Resources 6 Last year the council faced a range of challenges as a result of the Partnerships 6 difficult economic climate – and as we continue through 2010/2011 Equality and diversity 6 many of these pressures remain. Sustainability 7 In providing key services for Island residents, the council remains committed to ensuring these services are delivered in a manner that represents best Annual governance statement 7 value for the council taxpayer. Summary of accounts 8 We are determined the services we provide are delivered to a high quality and that they will continue to make a real contribution to the quality of life enjoyed by local residents. Feedback Councillor David Pugh, leader of the council The council would like to know if you find this information useful or if you think it could be presented differently. Our key priorities To help focus resources on the areas of successes in these priority areas: We would welcome your comments on most importance to residents, the council • The start of work on the new Pan any part of this report, but specifically on has set a list of priorities. Meadows development at Newport will the following questions: These priorities are: schools’ re- provide a boost to the local economy • Which parts of this report did you find organisation; improving roads and the and affordable homes for local people. useful? Highways Private Finance Initiative • The schools’ two-tier reorganisation • Were there any parts which were (PFI) scheme; transforming social care; is now well underway, and plans are progressing well for the creation of a difficult to understand? providing local housing; regeneration of the economy; modernising the Island’s flagship new Cowes Secondary School. • How do you think we could improve fire service; and delivering better overall • Key steps have already been taken to this report next year? services. modernise the Island’s fire and rescue Please write with your feedback, to Carol The priorities were decided following service, focusing on creating two new Harrison at: public consultation, including exercises fire stations at Ventnor and Newport, such as the annual residents’ survey. specialist new equipment and more full- Financial Services, Isle of Wight Council, There have already been some major time firefighter posts. FREEPOST (SCE 13306), County Hall, Newport, Isle of Wight More details on these priories can be found throughout the annual report. PO30 1UD Annual report 1

Economy and the env ironment Priorities and achievements Highways PFI project In 2008 the council learned it was one of only three councils (areas) nationally to qualify for non-repayable grant funding under the first wave of Highways Private Finance Initiative (PFI). Since then, it has been working through a complex procurement process to find a private sector partner to undertake the work and to make sure the project specification brings maximum benefits to the Island. Following this year’s general election, the incoming government announced it was reviewing departmental spending and all major projects of this type against the need to reduce the national debt. Children’s services The Island’s £364 million scheme was one Priorities and achievements such project – the council has had it first Schools’ reorganisation stage clearance from the Treasury and is The reorganisation of Island schools into a two-tier system is now well underway. It brings now awaiting the sponsor department, the the Island in line with much of the rest of the UK. Department for Transport, to re-approve The change is designed to improve educational attainment: while performance the project. It is likely that the outcome will compares well at primary school level, the Island lags significantly behind national be known this autumn. averages by the time pupils take their GCSEs. In the meantime, the council continues The council believes that pupils will benefit from spending longer in the successful to manage the procurement process, in primary education sector, and a two-tier education involves fewer potentially disruptive partnership with the three international changes of schools. engineering and funding consortiums To get to a two-tier structure for the start of the new academic year, the council has had bidding to be the council’s partner, and to make changes to school buildings and areas like its school transport and admissions also with government officials to ensure all policies. work that can be done in advance of the announcement is undertaken. Cowes One School Pathfinder A key part of the schools’ reorganisation at Cowes is the new £30 million One School Pathfinder project on the site of Cowes High School. A state of the art, environmentally-friendly school will be created to serve the entire Cowes community.

Other achievements • Three quarters of Island schools now enjoy Healthy Schools’ status, which means young people are developing healthy lifestyles to maintain through their adult lives. • The council commissioned a range of short breaks for 300 disabled children to give them the chance to take part in activities including sailing, tree-climbing, football, swimming – while providing their carers and families with respite support. • External funding was secured from partners, including the Youth Opportunities Fund and Wightlink, to support the Island’s entry into the 2010 World Youth Games in the Azores. Pictured: Artist’s impression of the new Cowes school

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Economy and the env ironment Fire service modernisation The council’s fire and rescue service is on course for a major modernisation. The move will involve an £8 million investment in the service to create new fire stations in Newport and Ventnor and provide new equipment such as extra appliances specifically kitted out to respond to road traffic accidents. It also involves employing more whole- time firefighters to reduce the service’s reliance on retained or part-time crews. This will enable more emphasis to be put on fire prevention work to keep Island residents and businesses safe (see special feature on pages 14 to 16).

Helping the economy Other achievements • Following the announcement of the closure of wind technology • At the beginning of the year, the Island experienced some firm Vestas in July last year, the council became an active of the worst snowfalls for many years, with council staff and member of a task force to help staff find alternative training contractors working continuously for ten days to tackle the and employment. The council also played a key role in helping effects of the freezing conditions. While the winter maintenance establish the new Vestas research and development facility at plan generally worked well, Stag Lane, Newport which will create an estimated 300 jobs. several changes have been • Also in Stag Lane, a local company has been granted an option incorporated to enhance to use council land to develop a major biomass plant with the the response next time it potential to generate power for thousands of Island homes. is needed. The conditions • Through the Future Jobs Fund the council bid for money to meant the council had to fill give six months’ employment across the authority to 38 long- in 8,000 potholes in the first term unemployed people and help towards gaining full-time three months of 2010. employment. • Island schools were awarded • The council also worked closely with GKN to enable the 14 bronze and one silver company to expand its Whippingham site to develop wing award for their school travel tip technology to help make future aircraft travel more plans. The silver achieved environmentally-friendly. by Godshill was the only • The council continues to work with Southampton University to one achieved outside test the strength of tidal flows off Fort Victoria and St Catherine’s London and the school Point, with a view to the sites becoming locations for future tidal went on to win the energy testing and power generation. National Travel School • The council is also working hard to make sure the Island gains of the year. All schools maximum benefit from the new Eneco offshore windfarm to be now have travel plans. built off the Island’s south west coast.

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Pan Meadows Perhaps the biggest achievement in community services has been the start of work on the Pan Meadows development at Newport. This partnership project will see 846 homes – a third of which will be designated as affordable – built next to and dovetailed in with the existing Pan community. The homes will be built to an environmentally-friendly specification and the development will be supplied with heat and hot water from a specially-built biomass plant. Pan Meadows will also feature new play areas and nature parks – and development partner Barratt’s has pledged to use as much local labour and as many local suppliers as it can. Also at Pan, the council has been working hard to drive down recorded crime. Between April and October 2009, reports of violence against the person fell 32 per cent (from 65 incidents to 44) and criminal damage and arson by 54 per cent (from 72 incidents to 33). This is the result of partnership working developed by the Pan Neighbourhood Partnership. Among schemes and projects contributing to the reduction have been: • the Pan community wardens and the junior warden scheme; • the revitalisation of Pan Youth Club; • the construction of a multi-use games area; • an increase in community activities.

Homefinder scheme and special grants After residents identified a clear need, the council’s housing services department worked with Island housing associations to create Island Homefinder, giving tenants the chance to view and bid for available properties. Part of this process involved contacting 5,000 households to see if they wished to remain on the housing register – with 3,300 currently on that list. The housing renewal team approved more than £2.4 million worth of disabled facilities grants, repair grants and grants for additional measures to make properties more environmentally- Community services friendly. Priorities and achievements The team has Transforming social care also dealt with Social care on the Isle of Wight and nationally is changing. The many enforcement way people receive their care and the type of care they get is matters, helping to moving away from the traditional methods of the past. remove more than Island The aim of the transforming social care agenda is to give 400 major hazards people more choice and control over how they live their lives. In from Island HomeFinder the past, a social worker or care manager would have arranged homes. Scheme guide care services for an individual. The council has Under the new way of working, individuals are given a personal also significantly budget from which to choose the services to meet their needs reduced the (a series of features on how personal budgets are changing number of people’s lives has been run in recent editions of One Island). people living On the Island, the transformation of social care is a priority for in temporary the council and we are working with a range of people, including accommodation service users and carers, organisations, staff groups and providers on the Island, to create a shared idea of how this can best be delivered. from 181 at the Overseeing this work is the transforming social care board, end of March made up of people from different departments in the council and 2009 to 121 health service, as well as providers and voluntary organisations. at the end of For more information on transforming social care you can visit: March 2010. www.iwight.com/living_here/health-and-wellbeing/Your_Care/ transfor.asp

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Pictured: Artist’s impression of the new Pan Meadows development

Pharmacy Fix quality imagery and to allow greater and were accredited in In partnership with the NHS, the council’s more effective use of mobile CCTV. the Island’s Best drug and alcohol action team worked with Fifteen new cameras were installed at Bar None awards nine Island pharmacies to raise awareness Cowes and Shanklin, funded by the local to promote the of, and to vaccinate against, hepatitis. town councils. highest standards of The Pharmacy Fix Project encouraged operation within licensed premises such those susceptible to the viral condition to Street pastors at Ryde as pubs and clubs come forward for testing and vaccination. The council’s environment and • The Scores on the Doors scheme to Pharmacists were trained to screen, counsel neighbourhood officers were instrumental promote high standards of food hygiene and offer vaccinations to injecting drug in supporting a new street pastor scheme also achieved impressive results. When users who are a particularly high risk group in Ryde. launched in 2007, 20 per cent of premises for contracting hepatitis. The pastors work closely with vulnerable had earned the maximum five star rating The pioneering project could now be groups such as drug users, and their following inspection, but by the end of spread to other vaccination programmes presence helped contribute to a 43 per the last financial year this had risen to 53 such as seasonal and ‘bird’ flu. The project cent cut in violent crimes in Ryde town per cent. gained several awards for its innovative centre on Friday nights (between June and • Much work has been done by trading approach. December 2009). This year the scheme will standards both in terms of legal action be extended to Newport. against rogue traders and in educating CCTV improvements people – including 2,500 school children The council’s CCTV control room was Other achievements – to prevent them from becoming completely refurbished with state of the • The council has been nominated as one victims. art technology introduced to give better of only 11 local authorities to be a Big • Trading standards also worked with Tidy Champion in recognition of its work parish and town councils to create No as part of the Litter Free Island group. Cold Calling Zones covering 8,700 homes. • Under the Community Payback scheme, Responding to particular complaints parish and town councillors and Isle of about cold calling by energy companies, Wight council members are able to refer pressure was successfully put on the top to a single contact point, any scheme six companies to amend their code of that could be undertaken by those practice so they do not call at homes serving community penalties. displaying a ‘no cold calling’ sticker. Between January and December 2009, • Work continues with the police on more than 60 projects taking nearly 8,000 making test purchasing of age-sensitive hours and with an estimated value of products such as knives and alcohol, with £46,000 were completed. considerable success in reducing the • Twenty-two Island licensed premises number of inappropriate sales.

Annual report 5 Resources Partnerships Priorities and achievements repayment of the money. The work The council has launched a new grant- Transformation meant that for the third time, the fraud making programme for voluntary and The council is looking to deliver high team achieved top place among the 14 community organisations to bid to deliver quality services more efficiently through its local authorities with which the council is public services. This has resulted in real ‘transformation’ project. compared. opportunities to develop exciting new By operating more efficiently – for • The collection rate for council tax – 98.5 local services. example by working from fewer buildings per cent – was among the highest in the The council’s partnership team, working and using new computer software that country. with the Island NHS, has also launched removes duplication – the council aims to • Also, the average time for processing the council’s first participatory budgeting save money to allow it to be directed to housing and council tax benefit was well scheme. The national scheme encourages priority services. within targets despite an increase in the community involvement in making Recent examples of this include the number of people claiming during the spending decisions. introduction of a new system that puts economic downturn. That meant claims The first scheme enabled young internal services including payroll, human were processed faster at a time when people in West Wight to decide how to resources and procurement onto one single help was most needed. spend more than £20,000 on projects to operating database. • The council’s website at iwight.com encourage healthy lifestyles. Several departments have been was once again a finalist in the annual The partnership relocated as part of the transformation, Hantsweb Awards. The council was one team also manages the including community service finances, of three finalists in the Best Public Service council’s role as part payments services, recruitment, training, website 2009 category. of the Island Strategic and pensions from Newport offices (mainly • An online service developed by the Partnership (ISP). The County Hall) to Westridge at Ryde. council to provide people with long ISP brings together the The space vacated at County Hall will term health and social care needs with public, private and be used by staff who worked in other essential information also received voluntary sectors buildings. These buildings will either be national recognition. The One Link to deliver the Eco sold to realise a cash receipt or the leases service won the Independent Living Island sustain- will be surrendered to realise ongoing award at the National eWellbeing able comm- revenue savings. Awards 2010. unity strategy. The move is part of the council’s ongoing • The council’s call centre experienced its efforts to save money by reducing the busiest time on record during January’s number of office buildings from which it cold snap, taking more nearly 18,000 calls operates from 36 to 14. over the first eight days of the freeze. The staff have also been fully trained Other achievements to work with the new online payments • Work to prevent benefit fraud identified system that went live on October 1 £420,000-plus that had been claimed enabling them to process invoices Equality and illegally or wrongly. This led to 137 for things like council tax and parking sanctions and 36 prosecutions to secure notices. diversity To ensure all residents have equal access to services regardless of race, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, religion/belief or maternity status, the council operates to a nationally-agreed equality improvement framework for local government. To encourage and celebrate disability diversity on the Island, four new categories have been added to the Isle of Wight Lord Lieutenant’s annual community celebration of achievements awards. The council is also supporting the government’s agenda by working in closer partnership with the Island’s NHS on equality and diversity issues, and has developed a single equality scheme, which will be promoted during the autumn of 2010.

6 Annual report ANNUAL REPORT Sustainability Carbon footprint Year Emissions (tonnes of CO2) Sustainable development relates to The council’s carbon footprint is made up 2004/2005 25,939 the direct impact the council has on our of emissions from building energy use, 2005/2006 28,413 environment, such as carbon emissions, street lighting energy use, fleet vehicle and the wider roles of waste management, 2006/2007 24,065 fuel consumption, business travel fuel economic development and the health and consumption, and waste. 2007/2008 27,183 well-being of the Island’s population. In 2009/2010 the council’s carbon 2008/2009 30,187 Capital investment is often required management measures helped to achieve 2009/2010 26,864 for larger projects which contribute an 11 per cent reduction in the level of to sustainable development – and in carbon dioxide emissions. Sustainable accounting 2009/2010 the council invested £2.9 million The figures in the table show the Sustainable accounting is a new type in such projects. emissions for the period 2004/2005 to of reporting which shows how we are 2009/2010. contributing to sustainable development.

Annual governance statement The council has a statutory obligation to provide an annual governance statement, published with its statement of accounts. In preparing the statement, council heads of service complete a declaration confirming that effective internal control has operated throughout the year and where this cannot be confirmed, they identify any weaknesses and the causes and planned action to address the problem. During 2009/2010, the council identified that improvements were needed in its:

• implementation of council strategies and policies; • delivery of council services – in particular information communication technology, financial control, education and vulnerable clients; • governance, in particular, consultation arrangements and partnerships.

• Full details of the issues and plans for improvement can be found in the governance statement available at www.iwight.com Annual report 7 ANNUAL REPORT Summary statement of accounts 2009/2010 Where the money comes from What we’re worth 2008/2009 2009/2010 2008/2009 2009/2010 Revenue funding sources £000’s % £000’s % Long term assets – owned £000’s £000’s Dedicated schools’ grant 72,708 21 74,162 21 Intangibles 812 2,923 Formula grants 56,747 17 59,129 17 Land and buildings 268,349 281,318 Other government grants 95,083 28 107,320 30 Vehicles, plant, furniture and 10,035 10,574 Council tax 66,123 19 71,626 20 equipment Charges, rents, other incomes Infrastructure – roads, bridges 52,646 15 46,120 13 69,020 74,483 and adjustments etc Total 343,307 358,357 Community 1,931 2,553 How we spent it Shared ownership dwellings 1,198 1,195 2008/2009 2009/2010 Assets under construction 7,727 4,676 Gross revenue expenditure £000’s % £000’s % Surplus assets held for disposal 5,546 2,420 Culture, environment, regulatory Other 105 99 41,945 12 43,799 12 and planning Total 364,723 380,241 Long term liabilities – owed Children and education 138,486 40 136,560 38 Housing services (including Borrowing -135,931 -130,819 53,930 16 63,697 18 benefits) Capital grants & contributions -40,023 - 63,116 Deferred liablilites Fire and rescue service 6,441 2 6,954 2 -5,943 -6,589 Total Adult social care 54,891 16 56,770 16 -181,897 -200,524 Net long term assets (31/3/10) Highways, roads and transport 22,588 7 24,536 7 182,826 179,717 Short term assets Core and democratic services 25,026 7 26,041 7 Total 343,307 358,357 Stock 618 689 Cash and investment 15,869 10,487 2009/2010 capital spending Money owed to the council 18,429 23,472 Total 34,916 34,648 Highways (£9,915,000) Short term liabilities Children and education (£7,497,000) Money owed by the council -21,843 -23,710 Community (£4,905,000) Provisions -4,005 -3,223 Resources (£4,634,000) Total -25,848 -26,933 Other environmental (£2,425,000) Net short term assets (31/3/10) 9,068 7,715 Economic inc. Leader via IWEP (£327,000) Total assets (31/3/10) 191,894 187,432 Fire service (£200,000) Financed by Highways (£9,915,000) Chief executive (£145,000) Fire service (£200,000) Other environmental (£2,425,000) Schools’ and children’ s projectsHigh (£7,497,000)Earmarkedways (£9,915,000) reserves 16,490 13,042 Community (£4,905,000) Resources (£4,634,000) Fire service (£200,000) Chief executive (£145,000) OtherGeneral environmental (£2,425,000) fund balance Economic including Leader via IWEP (£327,000) 11,515 7,273 Savings generated Schools’ and children’ s projects (£7,497,000) Community (£4,905,000) ResourcesCapital (£4,634,000) & accounting reserves 163,889 167,117 The 2009/2010 budget funded from £5.6 million in Chief executive (£145,000) EconomicTotal including Leader via IWEP (£327,000) identified additional expend- efficiency savings, a £2.3 million 191,894 187,432 Long term pension liability iture of £11.776 million for increase in formula grant, a -145,588 -269,763 services. Of this increase, £3 million increase in council tax £4.424 million resulted from and a £1.7 million increase in the Glossary of accounting terms the economic downturn, dedicated schools grant. Capital Spending on the acquisition, creation or enhancement of assets, either by the council particularly the council’s ability This was offset by a reduction or indirectly by the form of grants to other persons or bodies such as schools. Expenditure not to generate income. of £1.1 million in the amount falling within this definition of capital expenditure is classed as revenue. A further £4 million was iden- being withdrawn from the Dedicated schools grant A government grant for schools-related spend only. tified for inflation and other general fund. The council Other government grants Government grants to support a range of services. pressures, £1.776 million resolved not to increase fees Council tax A property tax collected from local taxpayers. additional spending on and charges. Formula grant Comprises two elements: revenue support grant to support local services schools and £1.575 million for Of the savings target of generally and non-domestic rates (business rates), a tax collected by councils and paid into a the revenue impact of capital £5.6 million, the council national ‘pool’ which the government then shares back out to councils. investment. achieved actual savings of Charges, rents, other income and adjustments Income from charging for services – leisure These increases were to be £9.542 million in 2009/2010. centres, car parking etc –and adjustments such as depreciation. Statement by director of resources Earmarked reserves Funds held by the council for specific purposes including unspent budget I certify that the statement of accounts presents a true and fair held by schools, and money set aside for insurance and risk management. Such reserves allow view of the financial position of the authority at the accounting a degree of flexibility between years. date and its income and expenditure for the year ended 31 General fund balances Funds to meet any unforeseen demands. March 2010. At the time of going to print, this statement of Capital and accounting reserves Technical accounting entries, the majority of which accounts is being audited by an auditor appointed by the Audit represent unrealised gains on the value of assets and the long term pensions liability, and are Commission – the government’s public spending watchdog. therefore not available to finance the council’s spend.

8 Annual report Island Waste, working on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council Complete this questionnaire for a chance to win a £50 gift voucher Working together to conserve We know visitors to the Island are impressed with the cleanliness of our Garden Isle, but we would like your views asthe well. Island’ sYou resour mayces notice these questions are the same as those we asked last year. This enables us to undertake comparative analysis of each year’s results. Please tick the answer you feel is the most applicable. STREET SWEEPING REFUSE COLLECTION (Please note that Island Waste Services’ contract does not 1 When your household waste is collected each week, where do include weed removal) you think it is taken? 1 The contract is responsible for cleaning over 800km of roads Landfill and 22km of cycle track. In relation to your own locality do you feel it is? The Resource Recovery Facility in Forest Road Very clean Acceptably clean Other (please state) Not clean enough 2 How satisfied are you with your refuse collection service? 2 When travelling around the Island do you generally perceive it Very satisfied Satisfied to be? Not satisfied Very clean Acceptably clean 3 How satisfied are you with recycling services on the Island? Not clean enough Very satisfied Satisfied 3 The Isle of Wight Council provides over 270 dog bins, emptied Not satisfied by the contractor. Are you... 4 How satisfied are you with the facilities at the Island’s three civic Satisfied with the frequency of emptying dog bins amenity sites (Afton Road, Freshwater; Forest Park, Newport; and Not satisfied with the frequency of emptying dog Lynnbottom, Arreton)? bins Very satisfied Satisfied Not applicable/don’t know Not satisfied 4 The Isle of Wight Council provides over 1,200 litterbins. Are you... 5 Are you participating in the organic kitchen waste collection Satisfied with the frequency of emptying litterbins service (green bucket) and kerbside recycling service (black box) in your area for newspapers, magazines, glass bottles and jars and textiles? Not satisfied with the frequency of emptying Organic waste YES NO litterbins in your area Kerbside recycling YES NO Not applicable/don’t know NB. You can request a FREE bucket or box if you do not 5 The contract includes a rapid response team able to react to have one, by filling out the form below. littering and fly tipping. 6 Please could you indicate in how many of the following you Are you aware of any litter hot spot/fly tipping areas? have seen/heard information about Island Waste Services in the YES NO last year. Please tick all that apply. If you answered YES, please state where. IW County Press One Island magazine From your children Community group talks To help us, please could you complete this section: The Beacon Local shows, eg Chale AGE – Under 21 41-50 MALE Guided walks Other (please state) 21-30 51-60 FEMALE 31-40 61+ POST CODE (please complete) PO

Please return this questionnaire to: Island Waste Services, Freepost, SCE6194, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5YX. If you would like to be entered into the prize draw to win a £50 gift voucher, please complete the section below (closing date 30 November, see www.islandwaste.co.uk for terms and conditions). If you also require a recycling box and/or bucket please complete this section as well. Name

Address Postcode ✁ Please deliver (tick as appropriate): Organic waste bucket Kerbside recycling box One Island 13

FEATURE

to communityDedicated the

or Sue Golding, the reassuring visit of a home fire Ryde has been the switch been created for more training safety team from nearby Ryde fire station has from a retained to a day- time at Ryde as well as vital Fmade a significant and crucial difference to her life. crewed station, a development data-gathering about local The visit, one of many Ryde fire it was bewildering and geared to improving fire cover properties, to improve the firefighters carry out in the frightening. This visit has been and incident prevention. information to hand when call- area each month, has given very reassuring and I now feel Station manager Dave outs occur. Sue and her family the vital comforted and know the right Grundy explained that along- Linked with all this is support and advice they need things to make our home safer. side the day-crew staffing additional community following a recent fire at their I would recommend to other of the station has come the work: via home visits, site home. people to get their homes provision of new equipment inspections, school visits and Crew manager Kevin checked.” and the availability of extra other initiatives to ensure Pont and firefighter Ross The increased number of fire appliances to increase the people of Ryde and the Smallcombe guided Sue on the home fire safety checks are capacity for different surrounding area know their siting and upkeep of smoke among the many measures incidents. local station is there to serve detectors, as well as other placing Ryde fire station at The opportunity has also them. key measures to maximise the the heart of the community it safety of her family home. serves. Main picture: Ross Smallcombe discusses home safety issues with Sue Golding Above right: Ryde Fire Station Sue said: “The night of the Central to the changes at Inset: Watch manager Kelvin Wright (left); station manager Dave Grundy 14 One Island COMMUNITY SAFETY

Major changes are underway to place a modern and effective fire and rescue service at the very heart of the Island community. Here we turn the spotlight on a revamped day-crewed Ryde fire station, where the changes are already making a difference to local people’s lives

appliance driver training. “We now have 13 day-crew firefighters five days a week, 9am to 5pm, and then 13 retained covering for evenings and weekends on a rota basis. The day-crew firefighters are also on call during the evenings. “This means we can now guarantee enhanced fire cover 24 hours a day from Ryde, which wasn’t the case before. The area this station covers has now increased from the town of Ryde to far further afield.” Dave Grundy said the moving of the turntable ladder to Ryde was particularly relevant as there were a lot of tall A new approach for Ryde fire station high risk buildings on the eastern side of the Island that were now covered by the station. The conversion of Ryde to day-crew staffing is central “We now have a greater capacity to cover a range of to the modernisation of the service approved by the different incidents from Ryde, and in turn across the whole council’s cabinet in April 2009. Island.” The programme includes an £8 million construction Firefighter Ross Smallcombe, who was successfully programme for the stations at Ryde, Newport and Ventnor. appointed from retained at East Cowes to day-crew at A team of 13 day-crew firefighters has now been in place Ryde, said: “I joined three years ago and when the chance at Ryde since February this year, supported by 13 retained came to apply for a day-crew position, it was the perfect firefighters. opportunity.” Eleven of the new day-crew have been recruited At Ryde, of the 11 new day-crew firefighters, five had from among the Island’s retained firefighters, and have been retained at Ryde, and two retained from each of undergone intensive training since their appointment. Cowes, East Cowes and Ventnor. Watch manager Kelvin Wright said: “The new day- As a result of the modernisation measures at Ryde, crew firefighters have all just undertaken a new BTec Ross said they were now able to give more time to the qualification as part of their training, as well as a five-day community and enhanced incident cover. road traffic collision course, training with the turntable “People are taking far more notice of the fire station here ladder which has been moved here from Newport, and fire and it is making a real difference.” One Island 15 FEATURE COMMUNITY SAFETY

Getting out into the community Key areas of the community involvement “We have also been out to most of the of Ryde’s new day-crew firefighters, local schools and many more people are include the home fire safety checks and becoming aware we are here and able to working with local schools and other help and advise them. We would also like organisations. more groups to come to see us at the “We are carrying out a high number of station.” home fire safety checks every month at The Ryde firefighters are also involved in the moment, mainly thanks to the new a safer roads programme and cycling safety staffing resource at Ryde,” said Kelvin. initiatives. The home checks are promoted through a variety of routes, including at events in the community attended by the fire If you would like to arrange and rescue service, via other agencies a home fire safety visit you referring people and properties which should contact the community may be vulnerable, and through contacts safety department on 533834. established from actual incidents.

Better cover for Extra facilities Work is due to begin this month on incidents on the extending Ryde fire station to create roads extra office and training space for A key part of the modern- firefighters and community use facilities. isation at Ryde has been the “We will be able to use the extension introduction of a new rescue for meetings and lectures, increasing pump vehicle and extraction our level of community use,” said Dave equipment for dealing with Grundy. The extension is due to be road traffic collisions. completed by January 2011. Previously rescue pumps with cutting and other gear Crucial data saves lives were based at Newport, Having a day-crew staff has also enabled but now Ryde also has a the further data gathering for, and rescue pump and a similar development of the database held on the arrangement is planned for Toughbook mobile data terminals, which Sandown in 2011. were successfully introduced in 2009. “It means an improvement The data they are gathering on in response levels combined businesses and communal flats in the with new equipment for Ryde area is accessible at the fire and safely and quickly removing rescue service control room, and on people from their vehicles,” the Toughbook computers kept on said Kelvin. the fire appliances. This gives them The new equipment crucial information on properties when includes cutters, spreaders attending incidents. The data collected and hydraulic rams. will also determine whether a fire safety inspection is needed. “Ryde is the test bed for the database. We are focusing on areas where we know there is a risk to start with, and estimate it should take about 12 months for us to complete,” said Dave. Already a similar database has been started at Newport and the eventual aim is to cover the whole Island.

16 One Island supplement www.iow.nhs.uk TheNews from Island’s NHS There are a number of issues on which the NHS needs to know your views: • The re-provision of Shackleton and in outcomes – a framework for the Dementia Services. NHS; and later this year a further • Mental Health Day Services. paper on public health is expected. • Community Mental Health Services. • Unscheduled care. • The government’s White Paper • Children’s heart surgery. ‘Liberating the NHS’ and associated • Pharmaceutical needs assessment. consultation papers: Commissioning • East Cowes Health Centre. for patients; local democratic You can find out more about all of legitimacy in health; regulating these issues on our website at healthcare providers; transparency www.iow.nhs.uk/yoursay

Best ever scores for unacceptable. Both St Mary’s Commissioning the ‘competencies’ and in environment, food, Hospital and Whitelodge in improves particular was praised for privacy and dignity Newport have improved their NHS Isle of Wight is a its strengthened financial The best ever scores achieved previous scores.This year they healthcare organisation that performance and financial by the NHS on the Island have received the following currently both ‘commissions’ efficiencies. for environment, food and ratings. and ‘provides’ all NHS Helen Shields, director of privacy and dignity have been services. commissioning at NHS Isle of published by the National St Mary’s Whitelodge Commissioning means that Wight, said: “I was delighted Patient Safety Agency (NPSA). Environment Excellent Excellent we assess and prioritise the that the work undertaken This means that patients on Food Excellent Excellent health needs of Islanders by commissioning within the the Island: receive care in a Privacy/dignity Good Excellent and make arrangements primary care trust has been first class environment; are (contracts) with services, recognised as improved, when provided with high standard Carol Alstrom, chief nurse both Island-based and on the compared with last year across food; and importantly, are and director of infection mainland, to meet the needs all competency areas. treated with dignity and prevention and control, of Island residents. “This improvement in the respect. said: “I am delighted with The latest report on our skills of our staff supports Under the national Patient the improvement in these commissioning service shows the commissioning of better Environment Action Team scores as this demonstrates that we are getting better at healthcare for the Island (PEAT) programme, every our ongoing commitment this. population.” healthcare facility in England to providing high quality In the report, NHS Isle • The full report is available at with ten or more inpatient patient care in a clean, safe of Wight has improved www.iow.nhs.uk/publications beds is assessed annually, and dignified environment. its rating in all 11 of focusing on non-clinical Staff and islanders can be very aspects of patient care and proud of these results.” given a rating of excellent, good, acceptable, • For more information about poor or PEAT and to view the scores please visit www.npsa.nhs.uk

One Island 17 POLICE SUPPLEMENT

Isle Of Wight Police AWARDS The courage and skills of the police force was praised by the Hampshire Police Authority during an awards ceremony at Ventnor Botanic Garden. Police officers and staff were honoured by Isle of Wight police commander Superintendent Norman Mellors for providing an excellent service to the community, catching criminals, and having an active presence in their local neighbourhood.

PC Matt Rumsey and Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Mike Thornton of the West Wight Safer Neighbourhoods team were congratulated for their response to youths who were threatening a man and shouting racial abuse. Extensive enquiries led to the offender being successfully prosecuted.

PC Rob Clarke and PC Jamie Dupey of the island’s Targeted Patrol Teams were praised for their calmness and professionalism in giving first aid to a stab victim. Paramedics told the police that without the officers’ actions, the man could have died.

PC Michael Hughes, PC Stuart Ross and PC Chris Worsfold received commendations for their outstanding work and calm attitude in dealing with the immediate aftermath of a fatal road traffic collision near Newport.

Crime Scene Inspector Mark Bell was Investigator Fred thanked for his dedication Cooper was thanked in reinforcing closer co- for his forensic work operation between the that helped to catch and police and community convict a prolific burglar on safety partner agencies. the Isle of Wight.

18 One Island POLICE SUPPLEMENT Violent Crime? Not on our Island

The police force on Police and Isle of Wight Council officers visit pubs, clubs and off-licences to check licensing laws are not the Isle of Wight is breached and gather information on any issues. reinforcing its work Police provide information to independent Pubwatch with the Community and Shopwatch schemes, which ban known offenders Safety Partnership from buying alcohol. to prevent violent Specialist officers and staff from the Public Protection Unit monitor high risk domestic abuse situations with crime during the partner agencies. autumn and winter. Frontline officers take positive action on patrol to protect the victim and any children involved from harm or further High visibility patrols injury. Where there is evidence that supports a power of start earlier on Friday arrest then an alleged offender is normally detained. and Saturday evenings to identify and deal with potential problems and The Isle of Wight’s former offenders before they High Sheriff Gay Edwards cause crimes. went on patrol with frontline officers PC Juliet Proctor and Sergeant Police work alongside Adam Edwards. She Isle of Wight Council said: “The officers’ keen CCTV operators to attention to people who direct patrols to areas were about was apparent where there is a risk of and they seemed to crime and disorder. use their eyes like radar constantly. On the Lawful powers are occasions we stopped to used to ban people investigate what they had aged 16 or over from noticed, I saw them calmly specific areas for up and politely approach the to 48 hours if they are people in question and quietly deal with each situation. involved in anti-social There was about them a measured authority at all times. behaviour. I found this both impressive and comforting.”

Police confiscate and Crime went down last year with 1,236 fewer victims of dispose of alcohol crime across the island. Thank you for your information where anti-social and assistance. We want to continue this reduction in behaviour is suspected. crime by listening and responding to local concerns and acting on your feedback. Illegal drugs are seized by officers using Phone the police on 101 or 0845 045 45 45. If you wish trained dogs and to remain anonymous, call independent Crimestoppers specialist technology. charity on 0800 555 111.

One Island 19 POLICE SUPPLEMENT

Policing on the Island

Hampshire Police Authority is an independent organisation that ensures communities receive an effective, efficient and high quality policing service.

Policing is one of the key services Local results Figures in bold arson, serious acquisitive crime that people rightly expect to be are 2009/10 and in brackets are & violence against the person all excellent – and there when they need 2008/09 fell on the island last year. Strong it. As the organisation responsible Number of crimes internal teamwork and effective for ensuring that local people get 9,009 (10,245) collaboration with partners had the best possible policing services, Down 12.0 per cent or 1,236 crimes. a very significant influence on we speak to a wide range of groups, these outcomes. These successes ‘‘communities and businesses across Number of dwelling burglaries were achieved within budget Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to 246 (283) and despite issues with Police find out what people want from their Down 13.0 per cent or 37 burglaries. buildings and estates, that in one local police. Number of vehicle crimes case date back over 100 years.” The drop in the number of overall 442 (591) crimes last year – 16,536 – is Down 25.2 per cent or 149 crimes. Working with partners more than a 10 per cent reduction, We work with community safety Number of serious violent crimes a tremendous achievement and a teams to make sure local priorities credit to the Chief Constable and his 69 (62) are heard at a strategic level and team. This is more than three times An increase of 11.2 per cent or reflected in the policing priorities for 7 crimes. the target we set and means that Hampshire Constabulary. local residents and visitors can be Resident’s satisfaction with service confident crime rates are falling and 68% (71%) How to contact us that Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Down 3 per cent. are even safer places. Hampshire Police Authority The police authority says: Call: 01962 871595 “The Isle of Wight continues to Email:police.authority@hampshire. remain one of the safest places pnn.police.uk Councillor Jacqui Rayment to live and visit. Crime figures To see our publications, including Chair, Hampshire Police Authority have consistently been falling the latest Annual Report and on the island over the past few Policing Plan, visit: ’’ www.hampshirepoliceauthority.org years. We would, however, like to see further reductions in the You can also find out more about number of serious violent crimes our public meetings, which you are welcome to attend. on the island, the actual numbers themselves are relatively small, however we know that violent Hampshire Constabulary crime is an important area that the In an emergency always dial 999. public want the constabulary to be For non-emergencies call tackling.’’ 0845 045 4545 or 101 www.hampshire.police.uk Superintendent Norman Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Mellors says: www.crime-stoppers-uk.org “Crime on the island has reduced Victim Support Line Councillor Jacqui Rayment by 12% last year. Anti-social 0845 30 90 900 www.victimsupport.org.uk 20 One Island behaviour, criminal damage,

HPA IOW Policing Summary v4.indd 1 10/8/10 14:39:48 POLICE SUPPLEMENT

What are our policing priorities?

The police authority has a statutory What you wanted duty to engage with the communities We asked about your priorities and of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight took action to tackle: to find out their community issues, • anti-social behaviour concerns and priorities. • vehicle crime This ensures people’s views and • speeding / anti social use of opinions are reflected in future plans vehicles including the Policing Plan – a three • criminal damage year rolling document that sets the policing priorities for Hampshire Cuts in crime/increase in Constabulary. residents’ satisfaction In this year’s plan there are six From 1 April 2009 to 31 March policing priorities: 2010 across Hampshire: Good value for money and high • providing an excellent service • all crime down 10.4 per cent quality, efficient policing • catching criminals and managing (16,536 fewer crimes) We make sure the police deliver offenders • criminal damage down 19.0 per good value services through: • an active presence in every cent (6,738 fewer crimes) • the police budget neighbourhood • vehicle crime down 19.7 per • use of resources • protecting our communities cent (2,832 fewer crimes) • recommendations from • making the most of our resources • rowdy and nuisance behaviour inspections down 18.7 per cent (14,005 • equipping our team to deliver • measuring performance fewer incidents) The Constabulary not only made Working with local people • vehicle nuisance / inappropriate efficiency savings of over £6 million During 2009/10 the police authority vehicle use down 24.7 per cent last year but also achieved significant attended more than 30 community (3,243 fewer incidents) improvements in performance. events to find out what people • gun crime down 12.6 per cent want the police to tackle, as well (15 fewer crimes) The police authority and Hampshire as a survey of 3,600 local people. • knife crime down 8.4 per cent Constabulary are using efficiency Your views help us to focus on your (60 fewer crimes) savings from the 2009/10 financial priorities for the next Policing Plan. year to support the 2010/11 budget, • serious violent crime down 4.4 with a contribution from reserves of per cent (42 fewer crimes). £2.3 million. Another £1.5 million • resident satisfaction levels is being saved by delivering further increased by 3 per cent to efficiency savings in police staff 67 per cent. working practices. Serious acquisitive crime (robbery, Efficiency savings are helping to household burglaries and vehicle reduce the impact of recent cuts thefts) detection rate improved - but in Government funding for local not enough to meet its target. policing.

One Island 21

HPA IOW Policing Summary v4.indd 2 10/8/10 14:39:53 COAST & COUNTRY

Take a look at new shoreline plan

The draft of the Island’s new The draft plan, a summary results will be used to review Shoreline Management leaflet and a response and set the final policies in Plan has been published for form can be found at www. November this year, and the public examination until 23 coastalwight.gov.uk/smp final plan will be completed in October. A copy is also available December. The plan sets out policy for at the Lord Louis Library, the management of coastal Newport and the Coastal The area covered by our SMP 3 flooding and erosion risks Visitors’ Centre, Ventnor (by Future management of the coast Isle of Wight SMP Isle of Wight SMP covers the 168km (104 miles) of open coast, beaches, harbours, estuaries and headlands around the Island. Much of the northern 6 coast of the Isle of Wight is relatively low-lying, with five estuaries and rivers around the Island’s coastline appointment, tel: 857220). draining north into the Solent (the Western Yar, Newtown Estuary, Medina Estuary, Wootton Creek and the Eastern Yar). By contrast the southern coast is generally formed of steep coastal cliffs and landslides.One of Pastthe difficulties and facing us,future as a nation, is thechanges economic, social and environmental cost of continuing to protect shorelines to the extent that we The majority of Isle of Wight towns are located arounddo at present. the coast The and development Newport of the of the proposed SMP policies has taken is located at the head of the Medina Estuary. Tourisminto considerationis vital part of thethe following issues: and estuaries for the next 20, economy on the Island with the population increasing during the busy 5 Following the end of the summer holiday season in July and August. Marine industries are located around the coastline and the Isle of Wight relies Economicsupon six ferry routes providing essential transport links, with nearly 200 crossingsThe every cost ofday. maintaining All this could all existingbe defences is already likely to be significantly affected by the way in which we manage the coastlinemore than in thepresent future expenditure and will be levels. With the climateHistorical changes being change vulnerable to future increases in flood and erosionpredicted, risks. the natural changes already taking place will accelerate. The equivalent cost of providing a defence will increaseThe during natural the coast next o century protecting wes much of its beauty to the 50 and 100 years. The cliffs, beaches and estuaries contain sites toof local, between national two andand four times the present cost, excluding inflationcoastal communities or other will b consultation period, the shoreline in many of the coastal processes of erosion but international environmental importance becausefactors, of their to between unique or £6million scarce and £20million per kilometre. In simple terms e an ever-increasing challenge. century. However, the er habitat or geological interest. Seventy percentthis of the means area thatis protected either more by UK money or needs to be invested in coastal defence, or towns has been defe new. Historic changes at osionF and landsliding that we The European environmental designations. The naturalthe expenditure environment has and to historicbe prioritised. nded since late 19 Niton, for example, hav reshwater Bay, the Needles towns and villages are a major asset for residents and visitors. More than half of see today is nothing of land to erosion for e been documented and for the Island is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. and at Gore Cliff near Socio-economics ming today’s coastal landscap m part of the trend of loss The three month The coastal town of Ventnor and areas of CowesThe to coast Gurnard is important are underlain for recreation by and leisure activities, particularly those e and cliffs. Climate change which rely on good quality beaches and easy access to the sea. In addition deep-seated landslide complexes. Sea level rise and increased winter rainfall Records have shown that sea lev to the widespread tourist industry, there are a number of other commercial will affect slope stability in some areas and is an important consideration in is likely to continue. interests along the coast including the ferry links and marine businesses el has risen over the shoreline management policy in these areas. facing a rise of nearlyThe one latest metre governmen o in Cowes, East Cowes, Newport, Wootton, Ryde, Bembridge, Ventnor and last century and this rise 1990s. When this rise is comb t projections are that we Yarmouth. The continuation of these industries is essential to sustain the ver the next 100 years, com weather ev could be consultation period began in present economy of the Island as a whole. ents, further coastalined change with the predicted incr pared to the is inevitable. ease in extreme Environment Sediment loss The sand and shingle that m Coastal management can have a significant impact on habitats, coastal along the coast b landforms and heritage features, both directly and indirectly. Managementakes up our beaches is is needed if this naturaly waves and tidal curr continually being moved decisions need to be made through consideration of all aspects of ents. A constant supply of this is therefore important t system of maintaining the beaches conservation and risk management. July, and Island residents are the south-w o allow erosion of cliffs to material est coast and at Dunnose, to main is to be sustained. It The conservation of ecological features in a changingshingle. environment is a key continue, for example al tain this supply of sand and We have split the area into seven aspect of environmental sustainability. Future management of the coast ong On the heavily defended fro sections to allow us to look more needs to allow habitats and features to respond and adjust to change such as combine closely at the individual issues of accelerated sea level rise. Many of the habitats in the SMPd with area accelerating have important ntages,wave actio limiting the local sedim continue to narrow and each area of coastline, and develop conservation designations and it is important to ensure that any management n, is likely to cause theent beaches input, policies for its management. These eventually disappear. being invited to submit their complies with the various pieces of legislation that relate to these areas. to sections, shown right, are known as Policy Development Zones (PDZ).

comments before the www.coastalwight.gov.uk/smp

closing date. www.coastalwight.gov.uk/smp

www.coastalwight.gov.uk/smp

Island residents are being encouraged by the Environment Agency to check if their home or business is in a flood risk area. It is estimated about 2,000 properties on the Island are at risk of flooding – and you can check if you are affected by visiting www.environment-agency.gov.uk/ floodsouth (entering your postcode). You can also find out by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188. Are you If you live in a flood risk area you can register online at risk? or by telephone to receive free flood warnings from the Floodline Warnings Direct service. You will then receive advance warning of any potential flooding, giving you the time you need to make sure your family or business is safe during a flood. The Environment Agency website also advises on how you can protect your property, offering a downloadable personal flood plan and information on how to prepare a flood kit. The costs of applying measures such as waterproof doors, windows and airbricks can range from £3,000 to £10,000 for a whole house. You can help to reduce the impact of flooding by preparing in advance. If you are interested in more information on current flood defence plans for the Island, the new Shoreline Management Plan has recently been launched for public consultation. You can visit www.coastalwight.gov. uk/smp to view the plan online. The plan is also available in the Lord Louis Reference Library, Newport, or the Coastal Visitors’ Centre, Ventnor (please telephone 857220 to arrange an appointment). 22 One Island Our Island, our environment

Encouraging wildlife in our gardens ‘Between a rock and a hard place’ may describe a Inspirational wildlife-friendly wild flowers. difficult situation in which we find ourselves – but gardens were celebrated at the The wildlife category was spare a thought for the plants that are always recent Wight in Bloom awards. supported by the Isle of Wight found growing on stone walls and roofs. They find Winner of the gold award in Biodiversity Partnership as part a foothold in crevices but shortages of nutrients the wildlife garden category of the International Year of and water, combined with extreme temperatures was Northwood Primary School, Biodiversity celebrations in 2010. all combine to make a difficult place to live. Plants showing “an outstanding diversity A wildlife friendly garden spring up rapidly at first but become scorched of habitats and good use of water is one planted to encourage when the weather warms up. recycling and composting”. wildlife and may incorporate Silver went to the Vectis a range of flowers or habitats Road allotments in East Cowes, which ideally provide shelter and particularly noted for their food for a wide range of species community beehive, and bronze throughout the year. to Afton Park Apple Farm, with • For more ideas on wildlife its nature trails, featuring long gardening visit www.bwg. grassed areas and a multitude of naturalengland.org.uk.

Ivy-leaved toadflax above( ) was first recorded in Britain in 1640, having been introduced from Mediterranean Europe. It is now common on walls and pathways and its folklore names of ‘roving jenny’ and ‘roving sailor’ may relate to its ability to spread. Its flowers are like miniature mauve and yellow snapdragons held out to the light on long stalks above bright green ivy-shaped leaves tinged red at the edge. Once the flowers have faded and set seed, the stalks bend away from the light and seek out the dark fissures where the plant is rooted. After the fruits ripen, they burst open and scatter the seeds deep into nooks and crannies where they will later germinate and continue the plant’s existence. Ferns such wall rue (left), black spleenwort (middle) and maidenhair spleenwort (bottom) are wall-dwellers. They grow close to the surface to help conserve water. Less commonly, rustyback Main picture: Afton Park won a bronze award fern may be seen. Inset: Northwood Primary School won gold (left); Northwood’s wild flower garden (centre); In times of water Vectis Road allotments won silver (right) shortage, the fronds of this plant curl As autumn progresses, gard- up tightly and the eners’ thoughts turn to tidying reddish-brown spore- before winter. Lavender bushes bearing undersides, are trimmed back to help from which the preserve the shape for future plant takes its name, years but if you are willing to become clearly visible. leave some seed heads you Seasonal guide to may be rewarded by the sight Anne Marston, of goldfinches feeding on the assistant ecology officer wildlife gardening energy-rich seeds in a cold snap.

One Island 23 TIME & PLACE 17 September to 3 December Aizhana Nurkenova Bill Evans, Wolverton ACTIVITIES (16 October) Manor, Shorwell, THEATRE SSAFA Celebration West Wight Arts 7.30pm. Too Good to Dinner (23 October) Association presents be True, the Veni, Veni, In aid of SSAFA pianist Aizhana Scambusters Emmanuel Forces Help, 125th Nurkenova playing musical (1 December) anniversary, guest music by Bach, (12 October) Concert of words and speaker Alan Schubert, Kapustin A musical depicting Titchmarsh, Cowes music for advent, by three scam victims, and Liszt, Memorial the choir of St Alban’s Yacht Haven, 7.30pm, Hall, Freshwater, presented by the tickets £45, contact and friends, St Alban- council’s trading 7.30pm, tickets: tel: the-Martyr Church, Sue Giles, tel: 882317. 752956. standards service Upper Ventnor, and Age Concern, Huge Hospice Quiz Ben Baker and 7.30pm, admission free. at Broadway Centre, (11 November) Sasha Grynyuk Sandown (10.30am) The largest charity TALKS (13 November) and Memorial Hall, quiz on the Island, West Wight Arts Edward Jenner and Freshwater (2.30pm), Lower Hyde, Shanklin, Association presents the small pox virus 7pm, teams of entry by ticket violinist Ben Baker (6 October) only, free tickets for four, register in Giuseppe Garibaldi is the subject of a and pianist Sasha A talk to the IW advance, contact Earl Sandown event from talk by the Isle of Wight branch of the Grynyuk, playing Branch of the trading standards Mountbatten Hospice Historical Association, 10 November at music by Schubert, Historical Association, fund raising, tel: (tel: 823370) or email 7.30pm, at the Parish Centre, Newport Schumann, Paganini by Tim Mason, Parish 528989. trading.standards@iow. and Brahms, Memorial Centre, Newport, gov.uk, for Freshwater EXHIBITIONS Antique and Vectis Branch of Hall, Freshwater, 7.30pm, contact Terry event from Age Collectors’ Fayre the Submariners’ 7.30pm, tickets from Blunden, tel: 524410. Concern IOW (tel: Bembridge Art (24 October) Association the Memorial Hall, tel: Giuseppe Garibaldi 525282). Society, autumn More than 30 stalls, (monthly) 752956. exhibition selling furniture, Fourth Wednesday in (10 November) The Ghost Train (15-17 October) ceramics, paintings, each month, Camp Wolverton A talk to the IW (28-30 October) Exhibition books, valuations Hill Prison Officers’ Manor Concert Branch of the The classic 1920’s of paintings, available, Ventnor Club, Newport, (20 November) Historical Association, comedy thriller by demonstrations by Winter Gardens, 10am 7.30pm. Nette Robinson by Lucy Hughes- Arnold Ridley, set at members, Bembridge to 3pm. (soprano) and Michael Hallett, Parish Centre, an isolated station in Village Hall, 10am to Vectis Railway Garrick (jazz musician Newport, 7.30pm, Cornwall, Memorial 4.30pm. Isle of Wight Enthusiasts and composer) in contact Terry Blunden, Hall, Freshwater, Society for the (monthly) concert to remember tel: 524410. 7.30pm, tel: 752956. The History of Blind, Christmas Third Monday, slide Northwood House Fair (20 November) presentations and These listings are provided free, as a public information service. Details and the Ward Gifts, crafts, toys and guest speakers, must be submitted either by: filling out this form, or emailing your Estate (23 October games, mulled wine, Southern Vectis details to [email protected] – 14 November) tea, coffee, Millbrooke Social Club, Newport Cowes Heritage House, Carisbrooke 7.30pm. Please conform to the format shown. Entries are included at the presents its annual Road, Newport, editorial team’s discretion. Next scheduled edition: 19 November exhibition of photos 10.30am to 2pm. MUSIC (listings for period 19 November to 2 February). and historical Wolverton documents, MEETINGS Manor Concert Title of event/activity: Northwood House, Brighstone (18 September) Cowes, 10am to 4pm, and District Rachel Lindop free entry. Horticultural (mezzo-soprano) Date: FAIRS & SHOWS Society, annual with friends, evening meeting of prose, music and Brief description: Isle of Wight Craft (9 November) poetry, Wolverton Guild, Craft Fair At Wilberforce Hall, Manor, Shorwell, (28-29 September, Brighstone, 7.30pm. 7.30pm. 23 October, 20 November) British Airways Concert, Some Hand crafted items Retired Staff Enchanted Evening made on the Island, Association (24 September) at Ventnor Botanic (monthly) The Island Savoyards Garden (28-29 Sept), Coffee morning, third sing songs from East Cowes Town Wednesday, White shows old and new, Venue: Hall (23 Oct, 20 Nov), Lion, Arreton, 11am. East Cowes Town Hall, 10am to 4pm, items 7.30pm. Isle of Wight Time: for sale, entrance free. branch of the Newchurch Male Brighstone British Cactus and Voice Choir, Contact name: Autumn Show Succulent Society charity concert Telephone: (9 October) (monthly) (30 September) Autumn show, Second Saturday each Concert in aid of

Please return (by 29 October) to: Wilberforce Hall, month, Church Close Earl Mountbatten ✁ Brighstone, 1.30pm to Community Centre, Hospice’s Yellow Week, Time & Place, One Island, Publications Unit, County Hall, 4pm, presentations Wootton, 7pm to St Catherine’s Church, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1UD or email to [email protected] at 4pm. 10pm. Ventnor, 7.30pm.